Lakers Linked to True Big Man in NBA Draft

Now that the 2026 NBA Combine has officially closed out, scouts have a much clearer picture of what to expect from the college players entering the draft. For the Los Angeles Lakers, this draft is absolutely crucial to the future of this franchise, as they lick their wounds after getting swept in the playoffs by the Thunder.

The Lakers have a talented roster. Their problem in the playoffs had a lot to do with Luka Dončić being out. It’s hard to go all the way without one of your absolute star players on the court, and that’s a tough lesson the Lakers learned quickly. So, with a healthy Luka Dončić next season, this team is on target to be in good shape, but there are still areas that need to be address.

In a mock draft from USA Today out on Tuesday, May 19, Bryan Kalbrosky gives his predictions for what will happen in the draft now that Combine has wrapped up. In the piece, he links the Lakers to a true big man in the draft: Jayden Quaintance of Kentucky.

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“The big man is still one of the youngest players in this class, but he has shown flashes during his time at Arizona State and Kentucky,” he states. “When healthy, he is arguably the most talented defender in this draft class and could help a team that desperately needs frontcourt help, like the Hornets. But health may cause some concern for evaluators.”

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My Take: Jayden Quaintance Offers Frontcourt Depth to the Lakers

There are downsides to taking Quaintance. He only played a handful of games last season because of coming back from a torn ACL too soon, and that makes him one of the biggest question marks in the draft. But, when he’s healthy, Quaintance is a strong rim protector, versatile defender and player who could add true frontcourt depth to the Lakers. Is he worth the risk, seeing that he hasn’t played much in the past year? The front office will have to make that call, but if they take him, there’s a good chance it will work out just fine.

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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 1:43 PM.